This Christmas celebration is not just an event; it’s a testament to the city’s commitment to fostering the magic of childhood, where play, creativity, and the holiday spirit converge to create lasting memories…reports Asian Lite News
Embrace the magic of Christmas as Ahmedabad announces the return of the highly anticipated 2nd edition of Winter Wonderland at Merriment Party Plot, SBR on 16th and 17th December. This carnival, anticipating over 2,000 delighted visitors, marks a grand milestone for the city, spreading joy and wonder for a decade. Committed to nurturing child development through play, Winter Wonderland offers an immersive and magical experience for families.
Special events and performances featuring authentic Christmas carols and storytelling will captivate visitors, transporting both children and adults into the enchanting world of wonder.
This Christmas celebration is not just an event; it’s a testament to the city’s commitment to fostering the magic of childhood, where play, creativity, and the holiday spirit converge to create lasting memories.
Beloved brands such as Lego, Toycra, Paw Patrol, Make It Real, Skillmatics, Imagimake, Kalakaram, Sam & Mi, SIS Prep, Geronimo Stilton, Dog Man, Knotty Heads, Gambol, and many more have collaborated to craft a magical Wonderland of Experiences that promises to ignite the imagination and captivate the hearts of children and families.
Once inside, enjoy all-inclusive fun with make and take activities worth THOUSANDS, ensuring every moment is filled with delight and wonder. Parents can relish the joyful atmosphere while the kids engage in creative activities.
It’s not just about play; the event also offers a scrumptious food curation with beautiful decor, completing the experience of a magical Christmas family outing. The joy and warmth of the season are wrapped into every corner of Ahmedabad’s Winter Wonderland.
“This is the best Christmas gift for your little one,” says Virang Shah, Co-founder of Toycra. “Watch them fill up their goodie bags with keepsakes and enjoy memorable experiences that will be cherished for a lifetime.”
“We are thrilled to be part of Ahmedabad’s Winter Wonderland, offering creative toys that bridge development and entertainment. Our range, from Mapology to Quill On, fosters holistic child development through fun and innovation. We are looking forward to create a fun-memorable experience,”says Imagimake.
Make this Christmas truly special for your family at Ahmedabad’s Winter Wonderland, where joy, wonder, and play come together in perfect harmony.
Hurry, grab your Early Bird Tickets now for the most magical Christmas event in town! Booking will close soon, and there won’t be any on-ground ticket sales. Don’t miss the festive fun – grab your tickets now before it’s too late. Book Now!
Dates: 16th and 17th December 2023 – (Same activities both days, so need to purchase a ticket for any 1 day)
Symphony Orchestra of India (SOI)’s tour will witness the UK premiere of Zakir Hussain’s Triple Concerto featuring Hussain along with Niladri Kumar on the sitar and Rakesh Chaurasia on the bansuri in London, Birmingham and Edinburgh, Rahul Laud reports
Following the Autumn 2023 Season in Mumbai, India’s first and only professional orchestra, the Symphony Orchestra of India (SOI), has announced its forthcoming UK tour commencing on November 29 across seven cities including Coventry, London, Cambridge, Croydon, Bradford, Birmingham and Edinburgh.
The 17-year-old orchestra will be returning to the UK after its well-received maiden tour of the country in 2019. The tour will exhibit the orchestra’s calibre in playing complex classical compositions as well as its unique strength in being able to showcase a signature piece, specially commissioned by the orchestra, that represents a meeting of the classical traditions of South Asia and the West.
The SOI ushered in its Autumn 2023 Season in September which was one of its most ambitious seasons. It featured esteemed conductors Alpesh Chauhan OBE and Richard Farnes, pianist Pavel Kolesnikov and welcomed celebrated cellist, Steven Isserlis, for his India debut. The world premiere of the SOI-commissioned Triple Concerto by Zakir Hussain in September recorded two sold-out shows and received an overwhelming response. The one-of-a-kind season was applauded by the audience in Mumbai and other concertgoers from different parts of the country. The orchestra’s UK Tour will be an extension of the SOI Autumn 2023 Season featuring the same artistes and the UK premiere of the Triple Concerto, say the organisers.
Khushroo N. Suntook, Co-founder, Symphony Orchestra of India and Chairman, NCPA, expressed, “The SOI’s seventeenth year has been special. The SOI co-founder and Music Director Marat Bisengaliev and I are pleased to witness the orchestra’s journey and hope that this is only the beginning. The Autumn 2023 Season was a great success assisted by the excitement around the NCPA’s commissioning of a Triple Concerto for the tabla, sitar and bansuri played by the three great maestros— Zakir Hussain, also the composer, Niladri Kumar and Rakesh Chaurasia. We can safely say that it was one of the most successful seasons of the SOI in living memory. The same artistes are now preparing to go to the U.K.
The tour promises to be a remarkable musical celebration and we look forward to presenting it to the audiences in the UK.”
The UK Tour 2023 schedule is as follows:
Wednesday, November 29, 2023: Coventry, Warwick Arts Centre, featuring Richard Farnes and Pavel Kolesnikov.
Thursday, November 30, 2023: London, Cadogan Hall, featuring Alpesh Chauhan and the Hussain trio.
Friday, December 1, 2023: Birmingham, Symphony Hall, featuring Alpesh Chauhan and the Hussain trio.
Saturday, December 2, 2023: Bradford, St. George’s Hall, featuring Richard Farnes and Marat Bisengaliev.
Sunday, December 3, 2023: Edinburgh, Usher Hall, featuring Alpesh Chauhan and the Hussain trio.
Tuesday, December 5, 2023: Croydon, Fairfield Halls, featuring Richard Farnes and Marat Bisengaliev.
Thursday, December 7, 2023: Cambridge, Corn Exchange, featuring Richard Farnes and Pavel Kolesnikov.
Friday, December 8, 2023: London, Cadogan Hall, featuring Richard Farnes and Pavel Kolesnikov.
Business leaders, celebrities, and influencers attended the awards, which were presented by broadcaster and stand-up comedian, Noreen Khan. Featured guests included the doctor and TV personality, Dr Amir Khan…reports Asian Lite News
The winners of the Yorkshire Asian Young Achiever Awards (YAYA’s) were announced at a gala awards night on 17 November at the Cedar Court Hotel in Bradford.
The awards were founded by Bradford-charity the QED Foundation and are supported by title sponsor, York St John University.
They celebrate young people aged 16 to 30 of South Asian heritage who were born in or live and work in Yorkshire, and who have overcome deprivation and disadvantage, or successfully broken through barriers, to become successful role models in their chosen fields.
YAYA awards host Noreen Khan with CEO of QED Dr Mohammed Ali and Deputy CEO Adeeba Malik
Over 30 nominees were in contention for the ten award categories.
Tanisha Jain, 20, from York won the Achievement in Sport award, sponsored by Janan.
Tanisha is the first Asian woman to be Sport Union President at the University of York. Tanisha has increased diversity for the BAME and LGBTQ communities at the university. She’s also treasurer for the Last Taboo, which helps victims of sexual violence.
Dr-Amir-Khan
Nusaybah Tufail, 22, was awarded the Achievement in Health, Mental Health, or Healthcare award, sponsored by the University of York.
Nusaybah lives in Bradford and works at Bradford Teaching Hospital on the neonatal ward. She is the first female in her family to have completed a university degree (in Children’s Nursing).
Mohammed Saeed, 19, who lives in Bradford, won the Achievement in Arts and Creative Industries, sponsored by the Science Media Museum.
YAY-winner-Umra-Andar
Mohammed was excluded from school and referred to the Pupil Referral Unit. He suffered mental health struggles during lockdown. Finding his passion in dance improved his well-being. He is completing his first year in Performing Arts at Bradford College.
Mahnoor Akhlaq was awarded Achievement in Media, sponsored by LocalIQ.
Mahnoor, 22, from Bradford, is a multimedia producer at Channel 4 News. A journalism graduate from the University of Leeds and a Royal Television Society Bursary recipient, she presents and covers stories on homelessness, poverty, and societal issues on Channel 4 News.
QED was founded in 1990 by Dr Mohammed Ali OBE. Today, the charity is a key player in ethnic minority issues at both national and international level.
Business leaders, celebrities, and influencers attended the awards, which were presented by broadcaster and stand-up comedian, Noreen Khan. Featured guests included the doctor and TV personality, Dr Amir Khan.
Video messages of support were also sent from high profile figures in their field, including the author Vaseem Khan, Professor Waqar Ahmad, footballer Kira Rai and the chief executive of the Disasters Emergency Committee, Saleh Saeed OBE.
Mohammad Malik, 24, was awarded Achievement in Education, sponsored by PeopleCert.
He lives in York where he is studying a PhD in Politics at the University of York. From a council estate in Manchester, he previously pulled out of university due to caring commitments, but returned to do a postgrad. He has organised trips to refugee camps, as well as helping Afghan refugees to integrate in York. Malik provides mentorship for students who want to enter higher education.
Safura Said won the Private Sector/ Young Entrepreneur category, sponsored by Morrisons.
Safura, 29, who lives in Halifax, left an abusive marriage whilst pregnant. The abuse impacted her mental health, leading to self-harm and severe panic attacks, but she went on to raise her son as a single mother and qualified as a conveyancer. She is also involved with the empowering community, Muslim Hikers.
Safah Aftab, 17, from Bradford, was awarded Achievement in School or College, sponsored by Bradford Council.
Despite having ICF syndrome – a rare genetic disorder that affects the immune system – she completed her GCSEs and went on to college. In 2022, she was diagnosed with Hodgkin lymphoma and underwent chemotherapy. Despite it, she carried on and completed her exams. Her ambition is to study Human Rights’ Law at university.
Sadiya Salim received the Achievement in Public Sector award, sponsored by the Home Office.
Sadiya, 30, who lives in Leeds has worked at Leeds City Council for seven years, mainly for the Child Friendly Leeds Team. Sadiya has supported Syrian refugees and provided activities to Afghans housed in local hotels. She has volunteered with the charity Barca, which delivers transformational services to children and families in Leeds.
The Not-for-Profit sector award, sponsored by Barnardo’s, went to Samiyaa Ahmed, 21, from York.
She has volunteered in refugee hubs in York and Newcastle, taught English to refugees at Newcastle University, and volunteered in refugee camps in Calais, Greece, and France. She has completed an internship with an MP, aspiring to work in the Human Rights’ sector.
Dr Mohammad Ali OBE, CEO of the QED Foundation, said: “The YAYAs are more than just an awards scheme, they’re a campaign to inspire more young people to be successful. Many of this year’s YAYA winners have succeeded, despite having to cope with major challenges in life. All of the young people nominated are an inspiration to others, and are making vital contributions to society at large.”
Each year, the YAYAs celebrate an individual for Overcoming Life Obstacles, sponsored by the University of Bradford.
This year the award went to Mohammed Hamad, 26, from Bradford, who was born with a rare genetic disability called Fuhrmann syndrome – a type of skeletal dysplasia – which has left him wheelchair bound. Hamad is a graduate in Accountancy and Finance from the University of Bradford. He currently works for the NHS as a Purchase Ledger Officer.
The Overall Winner for 2023, sponsored by York St John University, went to Mariam Habib.
Mariam, 29, lives in Leeds and is studying for a BSc (Honours) Health and Social Care degree at the University of Huddersfield. She is studying whilst taking care of her son, who has multiple health conditions and is highly dependent on her. She also faced an abusive marriage while pregnant with her second child. Taking a year out to raise her two children, she returned to her studies a year later.
The night also featured an inaugural award for school children, the Yorkshire Asian Young (YAY) award, which went to 15 year-old Umra Andar from Belle Vue Girls Academy.
QED founded the awards four years ago. The YAYA’s have grown into a key event in the awards calendar.
3rd Fujairah International Philosophy Conference. Image Courtesy: The Philosophy House
The conference provides participating philosophers from various countries and multiple civilizations the opportunity for philosophical dialogue about the common problems of all humanity…reports Asian Lite News
The third edition of the Fujairah International Philosophy Conference, organized by the Philosophy House in Fujairah was held under the patronage and presence of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Hamad Al Sharqi, Crown Prince of Fujairah. The conference was held to mark the World Philosophy Day and will continue from November 19-20, 2023.
At the conference, several papers will be presented by a number of Arab and international philosophers on the theme of “Philosophy and the Living World” in its many aspects.
Mr. Ahmed Al Samahi, Director of the Philosophy House, said philosophy’s approach to the living world deals with human existence in its realistic aspects, and to answer questions related to human life and destiny on this earth.
The conference provides participating philosophers from various countries and multiple civilizations the opportunity for philosophical dialogue about the common problems of all humanity.
After the opening speeches by Dr. Ahmad Al Barqawi, Dean of the Philosophy House, and Dr. Luca Maria Scarantino, President of the International Federation of Philosophical Societies, the conference will be held as per below:
Day 1:
Session 1: Dr. Ahmad Al Barqawi, entitled “Man as a Problem in Reality.”
Session 2: Dr. Najwa Al Hosani, entitled “What is Happiness?”
Session 3: Professor Nader El Bizri, entitled “From Human Intelligence to Artificial Intelligence”
Session 4: Dr. Ibrahim Bou Rshashan, entitled “Is there contemporary significance for Medieval Arabic philosophy?”
Day 2:
Session 1: Dr. Magdi Hafez, entitled “Contemporary Man and the Struggle of Values”
Session 2: Dr. Ali Al Kaabi, entitled “The Importance of Teaching Philosophy”
Session 3: Dr. Hassan Hammad, entitled “Art and Tolerance”
Session 4: Dr. Jacob Rendtorff, entitled “Is our planet in Danger? What Is the Way to Save It?”
Session 5: Dr. El Mahdi Moustakim, entitled “The Ethics of Coexistence”
The conference will conclude with a final statement and recommendations.
First Minister Mark Drakeford (left) joins Indian Honorary Consul Raj Aggarwal (2nd from right) and Health Minister Baroness Eluned Morgan (centre) and Economy Minister Vaughan Gething (2nd left), and Deputy High Commissioner Shri Sujit Ghosh (right) in Cardiff
The packed Diwali celebration was attended by hundreds of guests and included some exuberant festivities, with traditional Indian music, dancing and food…reports Asian Lite News
Welsh First Minister Mark Drakeford announced plans for a new Welsh and India economic initiative next year at the official Indian government Diwali event in Cardiff last night.
Indian Honorary Consul in Wales Raj Aggarwal speaking at the event
Speaking at the event at Glamorgan Cricket club in Pontcanna, the 69-year-old Labour politician revealed the details for the Year of Wales in India 2024 which aims to create even greater economic and cultural ties between the two nations. The launch is due to take place in India around St David’s Day (1st March 2024) and other events are planned in a number of cities including Delhi, Mumbai and Bengaluru.
Naheed Bardai Principal of Atlantic College, and Raj Aggarwal (centre) and Indian students
The First Minister was joined by Health Minister Baroness Eluned Morgan, Economy Minister Vaughan Gething, Deputy High Commissioner Shri Sujit Ghosh, who all spoke at the event which was organised by Indian Honorary Consul Raj Aggarwal.
The packed Diwali celebration was attended by hundreds of guests and included some exuberant festivities, with traditional Indian music, dancing and food.
Dancers and drummers at the Diwali in Cardiff event last night
Speaking at the event Indian Honorary Consul Raj Aggarwal voiced his excitement for the forthcoming initiatives.
Raj Aggarwal said: “We are looking forward to organising several events in India next year to build even stronger links between our two nations. The main themes for these meetings will include trade and investment, education, culture and health. This is a great opportunity to consolidate our relationships to ensure greater cooperation in the coming years.”
And he added: “I’m also glad to see Indian students here tonight who attend all the eight universities in Wales. There are currently over 2,200 Indian students studying for degrees at Welsh Universities and increase of over 200% since 2016, which brings in around £200m of revenue to our educational establishments. I myself was a graduate of Cardiff University and I owe so much to the education I received in this country.”
Welsh First Minister Mark Drakeford speaking at the event
The event was also attended by several representatives from major Indian companies in Wales, as well as some Indian start-ups.
The latest Rewayat release explores the mirror as a companion teaching self-care before self-presentation. It calls for discovering inner calm and experiencing a life enriched by contemplation…reports Asian Lite News
Many book-inspired activities at the ongoing 42nd Sharjah International Book Fair (SIBF 2023) are taking visitors on unique journeys of learning and new discoveries. Amongst thousands of such offerings, one stands out – a silent parade organised by Rewayat imprint of the UAE-based publisher Kalimat Group.
The parade is inspired by their latest book release, titled Mirror Meditation: The Power of Neuroscience and Self-Reflection to Overcome Self-Criticism written by Dr. Tara Well, a psychology professor and self-awareness coach.
The latest Rewayat release explores the mirror as a companion teaching self-care before self-presentation. It calls for discovering inner calm and experiencing a life enriched by contemplation.
The silent parade led by talented artists offers a stark contrast to the bustle of the lively book fair demanding immediate attention. The parade glides across the book fair’s premises, with the artists holding mirrors and gazing into them contemplatively, symbolic of the need for self-reflection and introspection.
The artist’s painted faces make their introspective stance more prominent to the audiences, encouraging them to look inwards, and perhaps, turn to the book that inspired this unique artistic performance.
SIBF 2023’s theme, ‘We Speak Books,’ encapsulates most activities, including Rewayat’s parade introducing the book, where author Dr. Tara Well raises self-reflective questions about our image in the mirror. She proposes that we look at ourselves to gain a deeper understanding and wisdom about our identities.
Well believes that mirrors can elicit powerful feelings and offer unexpected self-insights. They are fundamental tools for addressing life’s challenges because they allow us to confront ourselves directly.
SILC 2023 receives in-depth insights from global library experts on emerging technologies, sustainable knowledge models, climate action, and more…reports Asian Lite News
The 10th anniversary edition of the two-day Sharjah International Library Conference (SILC) is underway at the 42nd Sharjah International Book Fair (SIBF). Librarians, academics, and other industry professionals from around the world are holding key discussions on this first-of-its-kind platform in the region, and have turned the spotlight on the themes of sustainability, collaboration and emerging technologies like artificial intelligence (AI) that are key to advancing this vital sector locally and globally.
ALA President Emily Drabinski during the opening day of the conference
The fruit of a decade-long collaboration between the Sharjah International Book Fair and the American Library Association (ALA), SILC has crossed an important milestone this year in enabling the professional development of librarians and those in related fields, and facilitating ideas and expertise exchange.
General photos during the opening of the Sharjah International Library Conference (SILC) at the 42nd Sharjah International Book Fair (SIBF)
Welcoming attendees to the conference, HE Ahmed bin Rakkad Al Ameri, CEO of SBA, said: “We take pride in the fact that Sharjah is the only place hosting this conference outside the United States, in collaboration with the ALA. We also take pride in the fact that we will soon celebrate the centenary of the founding of Sharjah’s public libraries. We have achieved significant accomplishments in emphasising the role of the library in building communities, welcoming over 700,000 visitors between 2019 and 2023 to our public libraries in the emirate, offering over 6 million titles in 33 languages. We thank His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan Bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, who made books the cornerstone of human development.”
Dr. Al-Anoud Subahi, Assistant Professor and Supervisor of the IT Department at King AbdulAziz University in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia during the session titled ‘Artificial Intelligence and Multimedia facilities in school libraries: Possibilities for the Future’ during SILC 2023
Describing Sharjah’s hospitality as nothing short of extraordinary, ALA President Emily Drabinski, remarked: “This 10th edition of our conference is a momentous occasion, and provides us yet another opportunity to collectively explore, learn and strategise ways we can continue to make libraries worldwide even more wondrous. I wholeheartedly believe in the value of our work; in the power of collaboration, connection and cooperation. It is a privilege to be in a place that truly understands the transformative potential of libraries, its role in cultivating environments conducive to reading, and its nurturing endurance in service of communities. Through reading, people are able to expand their horizons beyond their immediate circumstances, envisioning diverse ways of being, knowing and exploring. If reading represents a practice of freedom, then libraries stand as bastions of that very freedom. They possess the ability to adapt and evolve, and through this conference we hope to make that evolution optimal.”
SILC 2023 receives in-depth insights from global library experts on emerging technologies, sustainable knowledge models, climate action, and more.
Officially commencing, after a full day of pre-conference workshops, the library conference is featuring diverse discussions and debates on wide-ranging topics pertinent to shaping a robust future for libraries worldwide.
Amongst over a dozen discussions that featured on the first day of the conference, one titled ‘AI and Libraries: Impact, Challenges and Opportunities’ explored the impact, challenges, and opportunities presented by artificial intelligence in libraries. Dr. Al-Anoud Subahi, Assistant Professor and Supervisor of the IT Department at King AbdulAziz University in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, shed light on the history of AI, its potential influence and application within libraries, and how librarians are utilising AI to enhance various aspects of their work.
Eman Bushlaibi, director of SPL during the session at SILC 2023
Expanding on the subject, Dr. Subahi said, “One practical use case of AI is locating a certain book within the library or even recommending a book for a certain subject matter or genre. The power of AI can also provide a personal experience for visitors using data about the books they have read in the past, curating a reading list for them to read in the future. AI can also help greatly when it comes to cataloguing and library databases, streamlining the process and making the library experience even better for both visitors and library professionals. A more controversial use of AI is the process of writing books, as with any new technology, it’s important to find a balance and not rely on technology completely. AI can be used to help the writing process such as ‘Task Oriented Authoring Tools,’ but it will not replace the human element, just as a calculator did not replace the mathematician.”
Technologies such as AI and robotics are also turning a new page within library spaces, and this was demonstrated during a session titled ‘Artificial Intelligence and Multimedia facilities in school libraries: Possibilities for the Future’ where Raghunathan. M.O, Senior Librarian at GEMS Modern Academy in Dubai showcased an exciting robot assistant that can be deployed in libraries. This AI powered assistant can provide a plethora of information including the location of certain books, recommendations for the visitor, as well as summaries and more detailed information about a title. This opens a new world for libraries and can provide a personalised service for every visitor.
Additional coverage of subjects such as enhancing the digital reading experience for the latest generation, “Gen Alpha,” and shedding light on how libraries can adapt to their unique needs, the conference also addressed the transformation of school libraries into vibrant learning resource centres, recognising the exemplary efforts made by the UAE Ministry of Education to make this a reality. Holding this important conference at the SIBF 2023 venue has also provided librarians and other industry professionals an opportunity to visit exhibits by participants from 109 nations worldwide, meet with authors and publishers to gain a wealth of insights and first-hand knowledge about the latest developments in their sectors, their challenges and opportunities.
The theme for the evening, “Modern Raja and Rani,” elicited a regal spectacle as attendees graced the event in magnificent lehengas, jewels, sherwanis, and suits. The glamorous sartorial tone was set by the presence of co-hosts Falguni Shane Peacock, who dressed most of the guests…reports Asian Lite News
The Pierre Hotel, located on the iconic 5th Avenue, soared with the spirit of Diwali as Falguni Shane Peacock and Anjula Acharia along with others co-hosted the second edition of “All That Glitters Diwali Ball” over the last weekend. The occasion, known to be the festival of lights, brought a magnificent array of luminaries from all walks of life to the grand ballroom beneath the Pierre Hotel’s resplendent chandeliers.Falguni Shane Peacock with Anjula Acharia, and co-host Anita Chatterjee and the others such fashion designer Prabal Gurung Huma Abedin, Imran Amed, Sarita Choudhury, Priya Shukla amongst others orchestrated a star-studded events. The guest list included noted personalities such as Diane Kruger, Georgina Chapman, and Adrien Brody. The host committee, a testament to the event’s grandeur, also featured esteemed individuals such as Bela Bajaria, Mindy Kaling, Rupi Kaur, Padma Lakshmi, Indra Nooyi, Rohan Oza, Jay Shetty and Versha Sharma.The theme for the evening, “Modern Raja and Rani,” elicited a regal spectacle as attendees graced the event in magnificent lehengas, jewels, sherwanis, and suits.
The glamorous sartorial tone was set by the presence of co-hosts Falguni Shane Peacock, who dressed most of the guests.The evening commenced with a brilliant display of Diwali-themed decor, masterfully produced by Exquisite Events, in The Pierre’s Rotunda room, featuring ornate murals and a breathtaking floral arrangement of white hydrangeas and cherry blossoms. As the night unfolded, guests were treated to a captivating performance by the dancers of AATMA Performing Arts. The event also saw a moving address from actor Sarita Choudhury, who emphasized the significance of Diwali, a festival that unites faith and advocates for nonviolence. In light of the ongoing challenges in the Middle East, Choudhury underscored the importance of unity and compassion. Anjula Acharia announced that a sum of 25,000 USD was raised and donated to ‘Doctors Without Borders.’
Following a delightful cocktail hour, guests were seen showing off their best dance moves in a dance off. Singer-songwriter Jean Sean set the dance floor ablaze belting off his famous numbers. The energetic and spirited atmosphere found its crescendo on the dance floor, where attendees celebrated the spirit of Diwali throughout the night. The guests then savoured in a buffet-style feast of South Asian cuisine, indulging in samosas, pakoras, pani puri, and more.
Rampur Distillery has launched a limited edition Diwali Spiced Manhattan Bottled Cocktail made with Rampur Double Cask Indian Single Malt Whisky. This Diwali Spiced Manhattan is the perfect blend of Rampur Double Cask Indian Single Malt Whisky, Sweet Red Agora Rosso Vermouth and Bittermens Buckspice Ginger Bitters. Each bottle contains five cocktails. Simply stir over ice, pour into a chilled coupe glass and garnish with a dehydrated orange wheel. A feature by columnist Riccha Grrover for Asian Lite International.
The Diwali Spiced Manhattan bottle is adorned with Diyas, which are oil lamps or decorative candles that are lit during Diwali festival celebrations.
Rampur Double Cask Indian Single Malt Whisky
Produced at India’s oldest distillery, Rampur Distillery, located in the foothills of the Himalayas, Rampur Double Cask Indian Single Malt Whisky is distilled in traditional copper pot stills. The malt matures for two-thirds of its life in handpicked American Bourbon Barrels and a third in European Oak Sherry Casks before being non-chill-filtered.
Jaisalmer Gold Indian Craft Gin
Jaisalmer Indian Craft Gins are also produced at Rampur Distillery and the latest expression, Jaisalmer Gold also makes for a great Diwali gift.
Jaisalmer Gold Indian Craft Gin is infused with 18 handpicked botanicals, of which 14 have been sourced from India including Coriander from Jaisalmer, Saffron from Kashmir, Nagpur Orange Peel, Darjeeling Green Tea, Gandharaj Lemon Peel from Eastern India, Nutmeg from Karnataka, Cinnamon from Kerala, Locally Sourced Rose Petals from around the distillery, Lemongrass, Bay Leaf, Liquorice Root, Vetiver, Black Pepper and Pink Pepper. Other botanicals include Juniper Berries, Angelica Root, Carraway and Cubeb Pepper.
It takes between 150,000 – 250,000 saffron crocus flowers just to get 1kg of saffron threads and it takes many hours to handpick the flower and pick the threads. The liquid is then enhanced by Gold filtration to produce Jaisalmer Gold Indian Craft Gin. This unique production process occurs wherein the Gin slowly passes through a filter made of intertwined golden silk filament, enriching the Gin with gold ions and providing a clean, smooth and balanced taste.
The bottle is inspired by the timeless architecture of the palaces and windows carved out of yellow sandstone in Jaisalmer.
About Radico Khaitan
Radico Khaitan Limited is among the oldest and one of the largest manufacturers of Indian Made Foreign Liquor in India. Earlier known as Rampur Distillery, Radico Khaitan commenced its operations in 1943 and over the years emerged from a major bulk spirits supplier and bottler to other spirit manufacturers to the originator of over fifteen organically grown brands.
Shanti Paath at the Diwali event in European Parliament
Delegates from Italy, Britain, France, Belgium, Switzerland, Poland, Luxembourg and Spain attended the event.
The Hindu Forum of Europe hosted Diwali at the European Parliament in Brussels recently, attended by delegates from Italy, Britain, France, Belgium, Switzerland, Poland, Luxembourg and Spain. The event began with welcome address by President of HFE Dr Lakshmi Vyas, lighting of the lamp and shanti paath by Krishna Krupa Dasa.
Ambassador of India Santosh Jha at HFE Diwali
During the two-hour event, President of India Delegation MEP Morten Lokkegaard, Ambassador of India to Belgium, Luxembourg and the European Union Santosh Jha, Ambassador of Nepal to Belgium, the Netherlands & Luxembourg Gajendra Rajbhandari, MEP Maxette Pirbakas, HFE spiritual advisors Swami Amarananda and Swami Rameshwarananda Giri, Kishan Manocha from ODIHR (Office of the Democratic Institution & Human Rights), BK Sister Jaymini Patel have all spoken on the significance of Diwali celebrations. The dignitaries were presented with beautiful shawls.
MEP Morten Lokkegaard at HFE Diwali
The event was also focussed on cultural significance which promoted classical dance performers who mesmerised the attendees with gracious and lovely performances. Invocation through classical dance was presented by Ragasudha Vinjamuri, followed by dances of Devhita Mondal, Aradhya Golcha, Mahika Golcha & Naisha Singhvi.
The event concluded with vegetarian dinner.
Invocation by Ragasudha Vinjamuri at HFE Diwali eventKishen Manocha of ODHIR at HFE DiwaliMEP Maxette Pirbakas at HFE DiwaliAmbassador of Nepal Gajendra Rajbhandari at HFE Diwali
